Guys, can you remember the last time you had a checkup? Maybe not. Men tend to put off getting medical care. However, it’s important to visit your healthcare provider for regular checkups — even if you’re feeling well. During your visit, ask about screening tests that can detect diseases and health conditions early, before you have any symptoms.

Here are six screenings that can help you stay healthy for years to come:

1. Blood pressure. More than 100 million Americans have high blood pressure or are taking medicine to keep their numbers under control. Avoiding salty foods, watching your weight and managing stress can also help lower blood pressure and reduce your risk for stroke and heart disease. Men ages 40 and older should get their blood pressure checked every year. 
   
2. Cholesterol. This simple blood test gives you four measurements: total cholesterol, LDL (the “bad” cholesterol), HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and triglycerides. High cholesterol puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke, but it doesn’t have any symptoms. Be sure to get your levels tested every four to six years.
   
3. Blood glucose. There are many different types of blood tests that can check glucose levels. Your provider may have you take one or more to confirm whether you have prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes, which can increase your risk for heart disease and other complications. Screening is recommended for adults ages 40 to 70 who are overweight or obese.
   
4. Colorectal cancer. Several options are available for colorectal cancer screening, including stool-based tests and visual exams. Medical experts offer varying recommendations about when to begin screening — age 45 or 50. Talk with your healthcare provider to find the schedule and test that works best for you.
   
5. Prostate cancer. After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the U.S. Starting at age 50 or 55, men should talk with their providers about the pros and cons of being screened with a prostate-specific antigen test.
   
6. Lung cancer. Screening guidelines have been updated to the following.
   

• Ages 50 through 80 years old. (Previously, screening ages were 55–80.)
• Have a history of heavy smoking, and are either a current smoker or have quit within the past 15 years.
• Heavy smoking means a smoking history of 1 pack a day for 20 years or 2 packs a day for 10 years.
  

$25 Lung Cancer Screenings
A low-dose CT lung cancer screening is fast and painless. Plus, it can help detect potential signs of lung cancer early when it’s easier to treat. Call 812-669-1628 to see whether you are eligible for a scan. You can also log on to crh.org/lung for more information.